Legal action against 'misleading' backyard pool sale

Robyn Preston

A Quinns Rock couple, who were victims of a shonky rent-to-buy scheme, are likely to be relieved as legal action against a property company that sold their backyard pool has been given the green light.

The couple returned from a year-long holiday to find their $16,000 swimming pool had been sold without their knowledge.

Consumer Protection said they had rented their house through property scheme director Rowan Amanda Lines in 2010, prior to heading overseas.

The business Presto Property Solutions had advertised on streetlight poles, in the Quokka newspaper and on classified website, Gumtree.

Under the rent-to-buy scheme, properties are rented with additional rent premium that may go towards the purchase of the house, should the tenant choose to purchase the property.

A Supreme Court Writ has been lodged against Ms Lines, alleging her company had misled customers.

"This highlights the confusing nature of these agreements where the line between tenant and owner is blurred and the legal rights of all parties are unclear. There are many other risks that we are concerned about."

Consumers who have concerns about a rent-to-buy property scheme should contact Consumer Protection on 1300 30 40 54.